Practice news

Dental Care Ireland, a Irish-owned network of dental practices nationwide, has celebrated three years in business with the opening of its 13th practice in Greystones, Co Wicklow.

Since its establishment in March 2015, Dental Care Ireland has embarked on a rapid programme of acquisition. Now with an annual turnover of €13 million, it is on track to reach its target of 15 practices by the end of the year.

Founded by Colm Davitt, former CEO of Affidea, and his brother Dr Kieran Davitt, a Galway-based dentist, the group acquires established, high-quality practices in local communities, with a view to helping them reach their full potential.

To date, it employs almost 200 team members across the country, comprising 80 general and specialist dentists, dental hygienists, dental nurses and practice managers, as well as operations, finance and marketing support staff.

According to Colm Davitt: “Our business model is unique in that all of our dentists are established practitioners with a loyal patient base. We work closely with them to build on the traditions of each individual practice, while ensuring consistent standards
for patients across the network.

“Our aim is to free dentists from administrative burden, allowing them to focus on clinical dentistry. We invest in upgrading the practices with latest facilities and technology, while providing administrative and management support.”

“We would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our patients for their continued
loyalty and very much look forward to showcasing our newly refurbished practice.”

2. Fourth care centre for Valley Healthcare

Valley Healthcare, a vehicle owned by the state-backed Irish Infrastructure Fund (IIF), has acquired a primary care centre in Mitchelstown, Co Cork. It brings to four the number of primary care centres that Valley Healthcare now controls.

It bought a new primary care centre in Tralee, Co Kerry, in December, and also owns two other operational primary care centres, in Wicklow and Mayo.

Valley Healthcare is managed by Glencar Healthcare, a firm chaired by former HSE chief executive Brendan Drumm. Glencar’s founder is surgeon John Drumm.

The IIF was established in 2012, with a €250m commitment from the sovereign Ireland Strategic Investment Fund.

The 20,000 sq ft Michelstown centre is occupied by the HSE, a GP practice and other health services providers.